May 8—Blending Italian & Croatian Charm

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​The Istrian Peninsula 
charms us with the Venetian-like town of Rovinj. It feels like we've stepped

through a wormhole straight into Italy. An early start gifted us with

wandering the quiet lanes up to St. Euphemia’s Cathedral where we climbed the creaky wooden steps of the bell tower to be rewarded with panoramic views. We descended into the now-bustling streets below and stopped to talk to a friendly shopkeeper who was thrilled to learn of Mark's somewhat "local" connection.

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Back on St. Catherine's Island, cool sea breezes mingled with late-afternoon sun and we settled along the rocky shoreline—just the Adriatic, a few seabirds, and us. As if on cue, the skies cleared, setting the stage for a delightful happy-hour boat cruise arranged by our guide, Katka. For dinner we returned to the hotel’s buffet, where everyone gathered to share laughs, wine, and stories from the day—like Ray and Greg who were caught in the bell tower when the bells rang. We enjoyed this relaxed, communal end to a wonderful day.

 

Enjoying cobblestones, cocktails, and church tower capers——Mark and Becky ⛪︎

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PS. Everyone cheered when the pope was elected, Ray & Greg were especially glad they weren't in the bell tower for all that dinging & donging!  🔔 🔔 🔔